Share this:

The 49ers are likely to play defensive end Ray McDonald this week in the season opener in Dallas, based on coach Jim Harbaugh’s comments during his Wednesday news conference. Harbaugh reiterated that two powerful principles are at play in regards to McDonald’s arrest Sunday morning on domestic violence charges.

topos0901_ph_49ers

Ray McDonald stands on the field before their game against the Denver Broncos. (Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)

The first is that the he does not tolerate domestic violence, the second is that Harbaugh will allow due process to take its course.

“We are not going to concentrate on who (makes the decision on whether McDonald will play),” Harbaugh said. “It’s what’s going to make the decision and that is information and fact.”

Consequently, it appears the 49ers will allow the district attorney to determine if they are going to charge McDonald with any crime. In the meantime, McDonald is likely to play, although Harbaugh did not say that directly.

When asked if they are waiting on the district attorney’s decision, Harbaugh said, “We are waiting on information and fact. This is a legal issue. You know my position that is for everyone involved to allow due process to take place. … It’s a legal matter. Remember that please.”

Harbaugh continued to say it was legal matter. At point, he asked the media to raise their hand if they were not in favor of due process.

“It’s in the Constitution. … It’s well defined,” Harbaugh said. “I have taken as many questions as I am going to take on that subject.”